ABOUT 30 firefighters from two counties tackled a blaze which destroyed a large area of heathland near Ringwood.

The fire, which broke out at Plumley Wood, yesterday afternoon affected an area 200 by 200 metres.

Six fire engines, two Land Rovers and two water carriers were sent to the scene.

Ringwood Fire Station tweeted: "Large fire in the open. Multiple seats of fire over a wide expanse."

Crews from eight fire stations across Hampshire and Dorset - Beaulieu, Burley, Eastleigh, Ferndown, Fordingbridge, Lyndhurst, Southbourne and Verwood tackled the flames.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the area was re-inspected this morning but no burning areas or hot-spots were found.